Predoping method for negative electrode active material, manufacturing method for negative electrode, and manufacturing method for power storage device

ABSTRACT

A predoping method for a negative electrode active material to dope the negative electrode active material with lithium ions. The predoping method for a negative electrode active material includes: a predoping process and a post-doping modification process. In the predoping process, the negative electrode active material is doped with lithium ions, to thereby reduce a potential of the negative electrode active material relative to lithium metal. In the post-doping modification process, after the predoping process, reaction is caused between a reactive compound that is reactive with lithium ions and lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material, to thereby increase the potential of the negative electrode active material relative to lithium metal. The potential of the negative electrode active material relative to lithium metal is 0.8 V or more at completion of the post-doping modification process.

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

This international application claims the benefit of Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-029685 filed on Feb. 22, 2018 with the Japan Patent Office, and the entire disclosure of Japanese Patent Application No. 2018-029685 is incorporated herein by reference.

TECHNICAL FIELD

The present disclosure relates to a predoping method for a negative electrode active material, a manufacturing method for a negative electrode, and a manufacturing method for a power storage device.

BACKGROUND ART

A lithium-ion rechargeable battery generally comprises a positive electrode, a negative electrode, an electrolyte layer, and a battery case. The positive electrode and the negative electrode are connected to each other through the electrolyte layer. The positive electrode, the negative electrode, and the electrolyte layer are housed in the battery case. The positive electrode is formed by applying a positive electrode active material, and other components, to both surfaces of a positive electrode current collector using a binder. The negative electrode is formed by applying a negative electrode active material, and other components, to both surfaces of a negative electrode current collector using a binder. For the negative electrode active material, a negative electrode active material previously doped with lithium ions is used. Patent Document 1 discloses such a negative electrode active material previously doped with lithium ions.

PRIOR ART DOCUMENTS Patent Documents

Patent Document 1: Japanese Unexamined Patent Application Publication No. 2012-204306

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION Problems to be Solved by the Invention

It has been found as a result of studies by the inventors that in a case where a power storage device, such as a lithium-ion rechargeable battery, is made using a negative electrode active material previously doped with lithium ions, large amounts of gases are generated during charge of the power storage device.

Generation of large amounts of gases during charge of the power storage device may disable keeping a constant distance between a positive electrode and a negative electrode, thereby causing variation in the distance. As a result, a degree of progress of battery reaction may vary in an in-plane direction of the power storage device, thus causing local degradation.

In one aspect of the present disclosure, it is preferable to provide a predoping method for a negative electrode active material, a manufacturing method for a negative electrode, and a manufacturing method for a power storage device that can reduce amounts of gases to be generated during charge of a power storage device.

Means for Solving the Problems

One aspect of the present disclosure provides a predoping method for a negative electrode active material to dope the negative electrode active material with lithium ions. The predoping method comprises: a predoping process to dope the negative electrode active material with lithium ions, to thereby reduce a potential of the negative electrode active material relative to lithium metal; and a post-doping modification process, after the predoping process, to cause reaction between a reactive compound that is reactive with lithium ions and lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material, to thereby increase the potential of the negative electrode active material relative to lithium metal. The potential of the negative electrode active material relative to lithium metal is 0.8 V or more at completion of the post-doping modification process.

A power storage device manufactured using a negative electrode active material subjected to the predoping method for a negative electrode active material in one aspect of the present disclosure can achieve reduction in amount of gas generated during charge of the power storage device.

Another aspect of the present disclosure provides a manufacturing method for a negative electrode. The method comprises: manufacturing a negative electrode active material doped with lithium ions by the predoping method for a negative electrode active material in one aspect of the present disclosure, and manufacturing a negative electrode using the negative electrode active material doped with lithium ions.

A power storage device manufactured using the negative electrode manufactured by the manufacturing method of a negative electrode in another aspect of the present disclosure can achieve reduction in amount of gas generated during charge of the power storage device.

A further aspect of the present disclosure provides a manufacturing method for a power storage device that comprises a positive electrode and a negative electrode. The method comprises manufacturing the negative electrode by the manufacturing method for a negative electrode in another aspect of the present disclosure.

A power storage device manufactured by the manufacturing method for a power storage device in the further aspect of the present disclosure is less likely to generate gas during charge of the power storage device.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

FIG. 1 is a graph plotting a relationship between a charge and discharge capacity and a potential E of a negative electrode active material at completion of a predoping process.

FIG. 2 is a graph showing a charge curve C_(C) of a positive electrode, a discharge curve D_(C) of the positive electrode, a charge curve C_(A) of a negative electrode, and a discharge curve D_(A) of the negative electrode in a lithium-ion rechargeable battery.

FIG. 3 is a side sectional view showing a configuration of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery.

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an outer appearance of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery.

EXPLANATION OF REFERENCE NUMERALS

1 . . . lithium-ion rechargeable battery, 3 . . . power generation element, 5 . . . exterior material, 5A, 5B . . . end portion, 7 . . . positive electrode current collector plate, 9 . . . negative electrode current collector plate, 11 . . . positive electrode, 13 . . . negative electrode, 15 . . . electrolyte layer, 17 . . . positive electrode current collector, 17A . . . end portion, 19 . . . positive electrode active material layer, 21 . . . negative electrode current collector, 21A . . . end portion, 23 . . . negative electrode active material layer

MODE FOR CARRYING OUT THE INVENTION

A description will be given of example embodiments of the present disclosure with reference to the drawings. In the description of the drawings, identical elements are denoted by identical reference numerals, and the same description thereof is not repeated. In the drawings, dimension ratios may be different from actual ratios due to exaggeration for convenience of description. As used herein, “potential” means “potential against lithium metal (vs. Li+/Li)” unless otherwise specified.

1. Predoping Method for Negative Electrode Active Material

In a predoping method for a negative electrode active material of the present disclosure, a negative electrode active material is doped with lithium ions. The predoping method for a negative electrode active material of the present disclosure comprises a predoping process and a post-doping modification process.

(1-1) Predoping Process

In the predoping process, the negative electrode active material is doped with lithium ions, to reduce a potential of the negative electrode active material relative to lithium metal.

There is no particular limitation to the negative electrode active material. For example, any publicly-known negative electrode active material for a power storage device may be appropriately selected for use as the negative electrode active material. Examples of the negative electrode active material may include carbon material, lithium-transition metal composite oxide, metal material, and lithium alloy-based negative electrode material. Examples of carbon material may include graphite, such as artificial graphite, coated natural graphite, natural graphite; soft carbon; and hard carbon. Examples of lithium-transition metal composite oxide may include Li₄Ti₅O₁₂.

Two or more types of negative electrode active materials may be concurrently used. Carbon material and lithium-transition metal composite oxide are preferable as the negative electrode active material. Carbon material and lithium-transition metal composite oxide are excellent in terms of capacity and output characteristics.

There is no particular limitation to a volume average particle size (D50) of the negative electrode active material. The volume average particle size of the negative electrode active material is preferably 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less, and more preferably 5 μm or more and 30 μm or less. Herein, a value of the “volume average particle size of active material particles” means a value of 50% diameter in volume-based cumulative fraction that is obtained by a laser diffraction measurement method.

The negative electrode active material prior to lithium ion doping by the predoping method for a negative electrode active material of the present disclosure (hereinafter referred to as the “negative electrode active material prior to processing”) may be not at all doped with lithium ions, or may be doped with lithium ions.

In a case where the negative electrode active material prior to processing has been doped with lithium ions, the negative electrode active material prior to processing preferably has a potential grater than a potential E_(g(max)). The potential E_(g(max)) is a potential at which an amount of gas generation is maximum when an initial doping of lithium ions is performed on the negative electrode active material prior to processing. When the negative electrode active material prior to processing has a potential greater than the potential E_(g(max)), the predoping method for a negative electrode active material of the present disclosure exhibits a more remarkable effect. The potential of the negative electrode active material prior to processing is preferably 0.30 V or more, more preferably 0.50 V or more, further preferably 0.70 V or more, particularly preferably 0.90 V or more, and most preferably 1.0 V or more.

Examples of a method for doping the negative electrode active material with lithium ions may include a slurry kneading method and an external short circuit method.

In the slurry kneading method, the negative electrode active material and metal lithium are dispersed in an electrolyte solution to prepare a slurry, and the prepared slurry is kneaded. In the slurry kneading method, an amount of lithium ions, for example, corresponding to an adding amount of metal lithium is doped into the negative electrode active material. The slurry kneading method may be performed, for example, at a room temperature.

There is no particular limitation to a device for kneading the slurry. For example, a publicly-known kneader may be used as the device for kneading the slurry. Examples of the publicly-known kneader may include HIVIS MIX (produced by PRIMIX Corporation).

In the external short circuit method, a negative electrode active material layer is formed using the negative electrode active material. The negative electrode active material layer is also referred to as a “negative electrode mixture layer”. The negative electrode active material layer, a separator, and a lithium metal layer are stacked in this order to form a stack. In the stack, the negative electrode active material and the lithium metal layer face each other through the separator. The negative electrode active material layer corresponds to a working electrode. Examples of the lithium metal layer may include lithium metal foil. The stack is held by and between paired current collectors to obtain a negative electrode half-cell. Examples of the current collector may include copper foil. An electrode lead is connected to each of the paired current collectors.

The negative electrode half-cell is enclosed in an outer packaging. The outer packaging is made of, for example, a laminate sheet. An end of the electrode lead is exposed out of the outer packaging. The electrolyte solution is filled in the outer packaging. Next, the outer packaging is vacuum sealed. An external short circuit is formed between the working electrode of the negative electrode half-cell and the lithium metal layer using a publicly-known charge and discharge device, to perform a charging process of the negative electrode active material layer. The working electrode of the negative electrode half-cell corresponds to the negative electrode active material layer. During this process, lithium ions are doped into the negative electrode active material.

According to the predoping method for a negative electrode active material of the present disclosure, doping of lithium ions into the negative electrode active material causes reduction in potential of the negative electrode active material, regardless of whether the slurry kneading method or the external short circuit method is employed. As the potential of the negative electrode active material is reduced, gases are generated from the negative electrode active material.

According to the predoping method for a negative electrode active material of the present disclosure, gases can be generated from the negative electrode active material during a predoping process. Thus, it is possible to reduce the amounts of gases generated during a charging process of a power storage device that comprises the negative electrode active material.

In the present specification, a potential of the negative electrode active material at completion of the predoping process is defined as a first potential F₁. There is no particular limitation to the first potential E₁. As the first potential E₁ is lower, a gas generation amount during the predoping process becomes greater. Thus, as the first potential E₁ is lower, a gas generation amount during a later charging process can be reduced. Accordingly, it is preferable that the first potential E₁ be low.

The first potential E₁ is preferably 1.0 V or less, more preferably 0.90 V or less, further preferably 0.75 V or less, yet further preferably 0.50 V or less, particularly preferably 0.30 V or less, and most preferably 0.20 V or less. There is no particular limitation to a lower limit of the first potential E₁, and the first potential E₁ generally may be approximately 0.01 V or more. The first potential E₁ becomes lower as a doping depth during the predoping process is greater.

The reason why the gas generation amount during the predoping process becomes greater, as the first potential E₁ is lower, is as described below. FIG. 1 is a graph plotting a relationship between a charge and discharge capacity and a potential E of the negative electrode active material at completion of the predoping process. In FIG. 1, a potential E_(g(max)) is a potential E when the gas generation from the negative electrode active material becomes maximum. A target potential is a potential of the negative electrode active material when doping of a predoping amount (hereinafter referred to as a “compensation predoping amount”) of lithium required to compensate an irreversible capacity is performed.

It has been found as a result of studies by the inventors that the potential E_(q(max)) is a potential that is lower than the target potential, as shown in FIG. 1.

In the predoping process, when an amount of lithium ions exceeding the compensation predoping amount is doped into the negative electrode active material, the first potential E₁ becomes smaller than the target potential and approaches the potential E_(g(max)). As a doping amount of lithium ions is increased, the first potential E₁ further approaches the potential E_(g(max)). As the first potential E₁ approaches the potential E_(g(max)), the gas generation amount during the predoping process is increased. Thus, as the first potential E₁ is lower, the gas generation amount during the predoping process is increased.

The first potential E₁ is preferably equal to or less than the potential E_(g(max)). If the first potential E₁ is equal to or less than the potential E_(g(max)), then the gas generation amount during the predoping process is increased. In this connection, the target potential and the potential E_(g(max)) may be measured by a publicly-known method.

(1-2) Post-Doping Modification Process

The post-doping modification process is performed after a doping process. In the post-doping modification process, a reactive compound that is reactive with lithium ions (hereinafter also simply referred to as a “reactive compound”) and lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material are caused to react, thereby increasing the potential of the negative electrode active material. A potential of the negative electrode active material at completion of the post-doping modification process is defined as a second potential E₂. The second potential E₂ 0.8 V or more.

As a result of studies by the inventors, it has been found that, if an amount of lithium ions exceeding the compensation predoping amount is doped into the negative electrode active material in the predoping process, without any additional process, then lithium metal is deposited as dendrite during charge and discharge of a power storage device.

FIG. 2 is a graph showing a charge curve C_(C) of a positive electrode, a discharge curve D_(C) of the positive electrode, a charge curve C_(A) of a negative electrode, and a discharge curve D_(A) of the negative electrode in a lithium-ion rechargeable battery. The lithium-ion rechargeable battery corresponds to a power storage device. As shown in FIG. 2, there is a certain area between the charge curve C_(C) of the positive electrode and the discharge curve D_(C) of the positive electrode, and this area corresponds to an irreversible capacity of the positive electrode. Also, there is a certain area between the charge curve C_(A) of the negative electrode and the discharge curve D_(A) of the negative electrode, and this area corresponds to an irreversible capacity of the negative electrode.

When forming a cell, in general, a type and a unit weight of each of the positive electrode active material and the negative electrode active material are determined such that a reversible capacity of the positive electrode and a reversible capacity of the negative electrode are equal. The reversible capacity of the positive electrode is a remaining capacity obtained by subtracting the irreversible capacity of the positive electrode from the capacity of the positive electrode. The reversible capacity of the negative electrode is a remaining capacity obtained by subtracting the irreversible capacity of the negative electrode from the capacity of the negative electrode. To specify the reversible capacity of the positive electrode and the reversible capacity of the negative electrode to be equal in this manner is referred to as “to keep an AC balance”.

If the predoping amount into the negative electrode active material is excessive in a cell that keeps an AC balance, then at least a part of the lithium ions emitted from the positive electrode active material during an initial charge cannot be stored in the negative electrode active material. The lithium ions that are not stored in the negative electrode active material are crystallized and deposited as lithium dendrite. Formation of lithium dendrite leads to reduction in battery safety. Also, formation of lithium dendrite makes it difficult to achieve high energy density of the cell.

By performing the post-doping modification process after the doping process, formation of lithium dendrite during charge and discharge can be reduced. Also, by performing the post-doping modification process after the doping process, a state of charge (SOC) in manufacturing a cell can be stabilized.

The post-doping modification process is performed using a negative electrode active material doped with lithium ions (hereinafter referred to as a “doped negative electrode active material”). The doped negative electrode active material may be one immediately after completion of the predoping process, or may be one after a certain time has elapsed since completion of the predoping process.

A potential of the doped negative electrode active material at start of the post-doping modification process is defined as a potential E_(S). The potential E_(S) may be equal to the first potential E₁, or may be a potential lower than the first potential E₁, or may be a potential higher than the first potential E₁.

The potential E_(S) is preferably substantially equal to the first potential E₁. With respect to the first potential E₁, the potential E_(S) has preferably a value in a range of ±0.5 V, more preferably a value in a range of ±0.3 V, further preferably a value in a range of ±0.1 V, and particularly preferably a value in a range of ±0.05 V.

In the post-doping modification process, for example, the doped negative electrode active material and a reactive compound may be mixed. In the post-doping modification process, for example, a reactive compound may be added to the doped negative electrode active material.

In a case where the predoping process is by the slurry kneading method, for example, a slurry that comprises the doped negative electrode active material and a reactive compound may be mixed in the post-doping modification process. In this case, the post-doping modification process can be performed easily.

There is no particular limitation to the reactive compound, and any reactive compound may be employed that reacts with the lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material, thereby modifying the lithium ions to a lithium compound. Examples of the reactive compound may include water, oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide. Among these reactive compounds, water and oxygen are particularly suitable. Two or more types of reactive compounds may be used concurrently. It is known generally that lithium reacts with water, oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide, and is changed into lithium hydroxide, lithium oxide, lithium nitride, lithium carbonate; it is considered that the doped lithium ions are also changed into lithium compound, such as lithium hydroxide, lithium oxide, lithium nitride, and lithium carbonate, in a similar manner. Thus, it is assumed that formation of lithium dendrite can be reduced.

A using amount of the reactive compound, per mAh of lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material, is preferably 1 μmol or more and 35 μmol or less, more preferably 3 μmol or more and 33 μmol or less, and particularly preferably 5 μmol or more and 30 μmol or less. In a case where the doped negative electrode active material and the reactive compound are mixed in the post-doping modification process, the using amount of the reactive compound means an amount of the reactive compound to be mixed with the doped negative electrode active material.

As a result of modification of the lithium ions, which are doped into the negative electrode active material, in the post-doping modification process, the second potential E₂ is increased. The second potential E₂ is 0.8 V or more. Increase in the second potential E₂ inhibits formation of lithium dendrite during charge and discharge of a power storage device.

There is no particular limitation to the second potential E₂ as long as the second potential E₂ is 0.8 V or more. The second potential E₂ is preferably 1.0 V or more, and more preferably 1.2 V or more. If the second potential E₂ is 1.0 V or more, then lithium dendrite is less likely to be formed during charge and discharge of a power storage device; if the second potential E₂ is 1.2 V or more, then lithium dendrite is particularly less likely to be formed during charge and discharge of a power storage device.

2. Manufacturing Method for Negative Electrode and Power Storage Device

In a manufacturing method for a negative electrode of the present disclosure, a doped negative electrode active material is manufactured, and the manufactured doped negative electrode active material is used to manufacture a negative electrode. A method for manufacturing a doped negative electrode active material is the method described in “1. Predoping Method for Negative Electrode Active Material” section above.

A manufacturing method for a power storage device of the present disclosure is a manufacturing method for a power storage device that comprises a positive electrode and a negative electrode. In the manufacturing method for a power storage device of the present disclosure, the negative electrode is manufactured by the manufacturing method for a negative electrode of the present disclosure. Examples of the power storage device may include a lithium-ion rechargeable battery and a lithium ion capacitor. Examples of the power storage device may also include other types of rechargeable batteries and non-rechargeable batteries.

In the manufacturing method for a power storage device of the present disclosure, portions other than the negative electrode active material may be manufactured by, for example, a conventionally known manufacturing method. The power storage device manufactured by the manufacturing method for a power storage device of the present disclosure can be suitably used for, for example, a vehicle driving power source and an auxiliary power source that require high volume energy density and high volume output density. The power storage device manufactured by the manufacturing method for a power storage device of the present disclosure can be suitably used as, for example, a large-capacity power source for electric vehicles, hybrid electric vehicles, fuel cell vehicles, hybrid fuel cell vehicles, and so on.

3. Configuration of Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery

The manufacturing method for a power storage device of the present disclosure enables manufacturing of, for example, a lithium-ion rechargeable battery. A cell provided in a lithium-ion rechargeable battery has high voltage. The cell provided in a lithium-ion rechargeable battery is, for example, a single cell layer. Thus, a lithium-ion rechargeable battery manufactured by the manufacturing method for a power storage device of the present disclosure achieves high energy density and high output density. The lithium-ion rechargeable battery manufactured by the manufacturing method of a power storage device of the present disclosure may be used for, for example, a drive power source of a vehicle, an auxiliary power source of a vehicle, a power source for a mobile device, such as a mobile phone.

There is no particular limitation to form or structure of a lithium-ion rechargeable battery manufactured by the manufacturing method for a power storage device of the present disclosure. In terms of form and structure, a lithium-ion rechargeable battery may be, for example, a stacked-type battery or a wound-type battery. The stacked-type battery is, for example, a flat battery. The wound-type battery is, for example, a cylindrical battery. The stacked-type battery can achieve long-term reliability by a simple sealing technique, such as thermocompression, and thus is excellent in cost and workability.

A lithium-ion rechargeable battery manufactured by the manufacturing method for a power storage device of the present disclosure may be a non-bipolar battery or a bipolar battery in terms of electrical connection form or electrode structure. The non-bipolar battery may be, for example, an internal parallel connection type battery. The bipolar battery may be, for example, an internal series connection type battery.

Examples of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery manufactured by the manufacturing method for a power storage device of the present disclosure may include a solution electrolyte type battery and a polymer battery. In the solution electrolyte type battery, a solution electrolyte is used for the electrolyte layer. Examples of the solution electrolyte may include non-aqueous electrolyte solution.

In the polymer battery, a polymer electrolyte is used for the electrolyte layer. Examples of the polymer battery may include a gel electrolyte battery and a solid polymer battery. The gel electrolyte battery is a battery in which a polymer gel electrolyte (also simply referred to as a “gel electrolyte”) is used. The solid polymer battery is, for example, a full solid battery. The solid polymer battery is a battery in which a polymer solid electrolyte (also simply referred to as a “polymer electrolyte”) is used.

A description will be given of one example of a lithium-ion rechargeable battery manufactured by the manufacturing method for a power storage device of the present disclosure with reference to FIG. 3. This lithium-ion rechargeable battery is of a non-bipolar type, and of an internal parallel connection type.

It is to be noted that a lithium-ion rechargeable battery manufactured by the manufacturing method for a power storage device of the present disclosure is not limited to that described below.

<Overall Configuration of Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery 1>

As shown in FIG. 3, a lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 comprises a power generation element 3, an exterior material 5, a positive electrode current collector plate 7, and a negative electrode current collector plate 9.

The power generation element 3 comprises several stacked units, and each of the units is formed by a positive electrode 11, an electrolyte layer 15, and a negative electrode 13 that are stacked in this order. The positive electrode 11 comprises a positive electrode current collector 17 and positive electrode active material layers 19 formed on both surfaces of the positive electrode current collector 17. The negative electrode 13 comprises a negative electrode current collector 21 and negative electrode active material layers 23 formed on both surfaces of the negative electrode current collector 21.

The exterior material 5 encapsulates the power generation element 3. An end portion 17A of each positive electrode current collector 17 at one side is held by an end portion 5A of the exterior material 5. An end portion 21A of each negative electrode current collector 21 at the other side opposite to the one side is held by an end portion 5B of the exterior material 5.

One end of the positive electrode current collector plate 7 is held by the end portion 5A and is electrically conductive with the end portion 17A. The other end of the positive electrode current collector plate 7 is exposed out of the exterior material 5. One end of the negative electrode current collector plate 9 is held by the end portion 5B, and is conductive with the end portion 21A. The other end of the negative electrode current collector plate 9 is exposed out of the exterior material 5.

In FIG. 3, the negative electrode 13 located uppermost and the negative electrode 13 located lowermost are each provided with the negative electrode active material layer 23 only on one surface of the negative electrode current collector 21, but may be provided with the negative electrode active material layers 23 on both surfaces of the negative electrode current collector 21.

Also, in FIG. 3, positions of the negative electrodes 13 and positions of the positive electrode 11 may be exchanged. In this case, in FIG. 3, the positive electrodes 11 are located at an uppermost position and a lowermost position of the power generation element 3. The positive electrodes 11 located at the uppermost position and the lowermost position each may be provided with the positive electrode active material layer 19 only on one surface of the positive electrode current collector 17, or each may be provided with the positive electrode active material layers 19 on both surfaces of the positive electrode current collector 17.

<Configuration of Positive Electrode Active Material Layer 19>

The positive electrode active material layer 19 comprises a positive electrode active material. Examples of the positive electrode active material may include lithium-transition metal composite oxide, lithium-transition metal phosphate compound, and lithium-transition metal sulfate compound. Examples of the lithium-transition metal composite oxide may include LiMn₂O₄, LiCoO₂, LiNiO₂, and Li(Ni—Mn—Co)O₂. Also, the lithium-transition metal composite oxide may be one in which a part of a transition metal in any of the aforementioned lithium-transition metal composite oxides is substituted with another element.

Two or more types of positive electrode active materials may be concurrently used. Lithium-transition metal composite oxides are excellent in terms of capacity and output characteristics. Among lithium-transition metal composite oxides, a lithium-transition metal composite oxide containing lithium and nickel is preferable. Among lithium-transition metal composite oxides, an NMC composite oxide is more preferable. In an NMC composite oxide, a part of the transition metal in Li(Ni—Mn—Co)O₂ or Li(Ni—Mn—Co)O₂ is substituted with another metal element.

An NMC composite oxide has a layered crystal structure in which a lithium atom layer and a transition metal atom layer are alternately stacked through an oxygen atom layer. In an NMC composite oxide, Mn, Ni, and Co are arranged in order. An NMC composite oxide contains one Li atom per atom of transition metal. Thus, an amount of Li that can be obtained from an NMC composite oxide is double an amount of Li that can be obtained from a spinel lithium manganese oxide. That is, a Li supply capacity of an NMC composite oxide is double a Li supply capacity of a spinel lithium manganese oxide. Thus, an NMC composite oxide can achieve a high capacity.

As described above, an NMC composite oxide includes a composite oxide in which a part of the transition metal element is substituted with another metal element. Examples of the metal element to be substituted for a part of the transition metal element may include Ti, Zr, Nb, W, P, Al, Mg, V, Ca, Sr, Cr, Fe, B, Ga, In, Si, Mo, Y, Sn, V, Cu, Ag, and Zn. Preferable examples of the metal element to be substituted for a part of the transition metal element may include Ti, Zr, Nb, W, P, Al, Mg, V, Ca, Sr, and Cr. More preferable metal elements to be substituted for a part of the transition metal element are Ti, Zr, P, Al, Mg, and Cr. Particularly preferable metal elements to be substituted for a part of the transition metal element are Ti, Zr, Al, Mg, and Cr. In a case where a metal element to be substituted for a part of the transition metal element is Ti, Zr, Al, Mg, or Cr, the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 can achieve an improved cycle characteristics.

An NMC composite oxide preferably has a composition represented by general formula (1): Li_(a)Ni_(b)Mn_(c)Co_(d)M_(x)O₂. In general formula (1), a, b, c, d, and x satisfy 0.9≤a≤1.2, 0<b<1, 0<c≤0.5, 0<d≤0.5, 0≤x≤0.3, and b+c+d=1. M represents at least one metal element selected from a group consisting of Ti, Zr, Nb, W, P, Al, Mg, V, Ca, Sr, and Cr.

In the formula, “a” represents an atomic ratio of Li, “b” represents an atomic ratio of Ni, “c” represents an atomic ratio of Mn, “d” represents an atomic ratio of Co, and “x” represents an atomic ratio of M. A composition of these elements is a value measured by a plasma (ICP) emission analysis method.

The NMC composite oxide represented by general formula (1) has a high theoretical discharge capacity. General formula (1) preferably satisfies 0.4≤b≤0.6. In this case, the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 achieves good cycle characteristics.

Nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and manganese (Mn) lead to an improved purity of the NMC composite oxide, thereby achieving an improved electronic conductivity. Accordingly, containing one of nickel (Ni), cobalt (Co), and manganese (Mn) will lead to improved capacity and output characteristics of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1.

“M” in general formula (1) represents a metal element that is substituted for a part of the transition metal in a crystal lattice of the NMC composite oxide. In a case where a part of the transition element is substituted with “M” in the NMC composite oxide, the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 has improved cycle characteristics. In particular, general formula (1) preferably satisfies 0<x≤0.3. Solid solution of “M” leads to a stabilized crystal structure of the NMC composite oxide. Thus, despite repeated charge and discharge, it is possible to inhibit reduction in capacity of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1, and to achieve excellent cycle characteristics.

In general formula (1), “b”, “c”, and “d” preferably satisfy 0.44≤b≤0.51, 0.27≤c≤0.31, and 0.19≤d≤50.26. In this case, an improved balance can be achieved between the capacity and lifetime characteristics of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1.

For example, LiNi_(0.5)Mn_(0.3)Co_(0.2)O₂ has a high capacity per unit mass and a high energy density, as compared with LiCoO₂, LiMn₂O₄, LiNi_(1/3)Mn_(1/3)Co_(1/3)O₂, and the like, which have been employed in common consumer batteries. Thus, use of LiNi_(0.5)Mn_(0.3)Co_(0.2)O₂ will lead to manufacturing of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 in a compact size with a high capacity. For example, if LiNi_(0.5)Mn_(0.3)Co_(0.2)O₂ is employed for the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 to be used in vehicles, then the vehicles can achieve an increased cruising range. Also, LiNi_(0.5)Mn_(0.3)Co_(0.2)O₂ has lifetime characteristics similar to those of LiNi_(1/3)Mn_(1/3)Co_(1/3)O₂.

Further, LiNi_(0.8)Co_(0.1)Al_(0.1)O₂ has a capacity per unit mass that is higher than a capacity per unit mass of LiNi_(0.5)Mn_(0.3)Co_(0.2)O₂. The positive electrode active material may be other than the aforementioned.

There is no particular limitation to a volume average particle size (D50) of the positive electrode active material. The volume average particle size of the positive electrode active material is preferably 1 μm or more and 30 μm or less, and more preferably 5 μm or more and 20 μm or less. If the volume average particle size of the positive electrode active material is within these ranges, then the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 can achieve high output.

The positive electrode active material layer 19 may comprise, for example, a binder, a conduction aid, a lithium salt, and an ion conductive polymer.

The binder binds the positive electrode active materials together, or the positive electrode active material and the current collector, to hold an electrode structure of the positive electrode 11. There is no particular limitation to the binder. Examples of the binder may include thermoplastic polymer, such as polyethylene, polypropylene, polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyether nitrile (PEN), polyacrylonitrile, polyimide, polyamide, polyamidimide, cellulose, carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC), ethylene-vinyl acetate copolymer, polyvinyl chloride, styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), isoprene rubber, butadiene rubber, ethylene-propylene rubber, ethylene-propylene-diene copolymer, styrene-butadiene-styrene block copolymer and hydrogenated product thereof, and styrene-isopren-styrene block copolymer and hydrogenated product thereof; fluororesin, such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), tetrafluoroethylene-hexafluoropropylene copolymer (FEP), tetrafluoroethylene-perfluoroalkyl vinyl ethercopolymer (PFA), ethylene-tetrafluoroethylene copolymer (ETFE), polychlorotrifluoroethylene (PCTFE), ethylene-chlorotrifluoroethylene copolymer (ECTFE), and polyvinyl fluoride (PVF); vinylidene fluoride-based fluororubber, such as vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene-based fluororubber (VDF-HFP-based fluororubber), vinylidene fluoride-hexafluoropropylene-tetrafluoroethylene-based fluororubber (VDF-HFP-TFE-based fluororubber), vinylidene fluoride-pentafluoropropylene-based fluororubber (VDF-PFP-based fluororubber), vinylidene fluoride-pentafluoropropylene-tetrafluoroethylene-based fluororubber (VDF-PFP-TFE-based fluororubber), vinylidene fluoride-perfluoromethyl vinyl ether-tetrafluoroethylene-based fluororubber (VDF-PFMVE-TFE-based fluororubber), vinylidene fluoride-chlorotrifluoroethylene-based fluororubber (VDF-CTFE-based fluororubber); and epoxy resin.

Particularly preferable binders are polyvinylidene fluoride, polyimide, styrene-butadiene rubber, carboxymethyl cellulose, polypropylene, polytetrafluoroethylene, polyacrylonitrile, polyamide, and polyamidimide. These preferable binders have high thermostability, have a very wide potential window, and are stable with respect to both positive electrode potential and negative electrode potential. One type of binder may be used singly, or two types of binders may be used concurrently.

There is no limitation to a binder amount to be contained in the positive electrode active material layer 19, if the binder amount allows binding of the active material. The binder amount is preferably 0.5% by mass or more and 15% by mass or less, and more preferably 1% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less, relative to a mass of the positive electrode active material layer 19.

The conduction aid is an additive that improves conductivity of the positive electrode active material layer 19. Examples of the conduction aid may include carbon materials, such as carbon black including acetylene black, graphite, and vapor-grown carbon fiber. If the positive electrode active material layer 19 comprises the conduction aid, an electronic network is formed effectively in the positive electrode active material layer 19, leading to improved output characteristics of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1.

A content of the conduction aid relative to a total amount of the positive electrode active material layer is in a range of preferably 1% by mass or more, more preferably 3% by mass or more, and further preferably 5% by mass or more. Also, the content of the conduction aid relative to the total amount of the positive electrode active material layer is in a range of preferably 15% by mass or less, more preferably 10% by mass or less, and further preferably 7% by mass or less.

The positive electrode active material layer 19 may comprise, for example, a conductive binder that has a function of a conduction aid and a function of a binder. The positive electrode active material layer 19 may comprise a conductive binder and a conduction aid and/or a binder. Examples of the conductive binder may include commercially available TAB-2 (produced by Hohsen Corporation).

Examples of lithium salt may include inorganic acid lithium salt, such as LiPF₆, LiBF₄, LiSbF₆, LiAsF₆, and LiClO₄; and organic acid lithium salt, such as LiN(CF₃SO₂)₂, LiN(C₂F₅SO₂)₂, and LiC(CF₃SO₂)₃. Among these, LiPF₆ is preferable. Use of LiPF₆ will lead to improved battery output and improved charge and discharge cycle characteristics of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1.

Examples of ion conductive polymer may include polyethylene oxide (PEO)-based polymer and polypropylene oxide (PPO)-based polymer.

Examples of a method for forming the positive electrode active material layer 19 may include a method for applying or coating a slurry, a kneading method, a sputtering method, a vapor deposition method, a CVD method, a PVD method, an ion plating method, and a thermal spraying method.

There is no particular limitation to a thickness of the positive electrode active material layer 19. The thickness of the positive electrode active material layer 19 may be appropriately specified based on, for example, publicly-known knowledge. For example, in consideration of intended use and ion conductivity of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1, the thickness of the positive electrode active material layer 19 may be specified as 1 μm or more and 500 μm or less, and preferably as 2 μm or more and 300 μm or less. Examples of the intended use of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 may include an intended use focusing on output and an intended use focusing on energy.

<Configuration of Negative Electrode Active Material Layer 23>

The negative electrode active material layer 23 comprises a negative electrode active material. At least a part of the negative electrode active material is doped with lithium ions by the predoping method for a negative electrode active material described in “1. Predoping Method for Negative Electrode Active Material” section above.

The negative electrode active material contained in the negative electrode active material layer 23 may be entirely doped with lithium ions, or the negative electrode active material contained in the negative electrode active material layer 23 may be partially not doped with lithium ions.

Relative to a total mass of the negative electrode active material contained in the negative electrode active material layer 23, a mass ratio (hereinafter referred to as a “doping ratio”) of the negative electrode active material doped with lithium ions is preferably 50% by mass or more, more preferably 70% by mass or more, further preferably 85% by mass or more, further more preferably 90% by mass or more, particularly preferably 95% by mass or more, and most preferably 100% by mass.

In a case where the power generation element 3 comprises two or more negative electrode active material layers 23, it is sufficient that at least one of the negative electrode active material layers 23 comprises a negative electrode active material doped with lithium ions. It is preferable that all of the negative electrode active material layers 23 each comprise a negative electrode active material doped with lithium ions.

There is no particular limitation to a mass ratio of the negative electrode active material relative to a total mass of the negative electrode active material layers 23. The mass ratio of the negative electrode active material relative to the total mass of the negative electrode active material layers 23 is preferably 80% by mass or more and 100% by mass or less, and more preferably 90% by mass or more and 99% by mass or less.

The negative electrode active material layer 23 may comprise, for example, a conductive member, a lithium salt, an ion conductive polymer, a binder, and so on, in addition to the negative electrode active material. Types and amounts of the lithium salt and the ion conductive polymer contained in the negative electrode active material layer 23 may be, for example, the same as types and amounts of the lithium salt and the ion conductive polymer contained in the positive electrode active material layer 19.

The conductive member has a function of forming an electronic conduction path in the negative electrode active material layer 23. For example, at least a part of the conductive member can form an electronic conduction path that electrically connects a first main surface of the negative electrode active material layer 23 to a second main surface of the negative electrode active material layer 23. The first main surface is a surface that contacts the electrolyte layer 15. The second main surface is a surface that contacts the negative electrode current collector 21.

If the conductive member forms the electronic conduction path in the negative electrode active material layer 23, an electron transfer resistance along a thickness direction of the negative electrode active material layer 23 can be reduced. As a result, improved high-rate output characteristics of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 can be achieved. Whether at least a part of the conductive member forms the electronic conduction path may be confirmed by observing a section of the negative electrode active material layer 23 using an SEM or an optical microscope.

The conductive member is preferably a conductive fiber having a fibrous configuration. Specific examples of the conductive member may include carbon fiber, such as PAN carbon fiber and pitch carbon fiber; conductive fiber in which high conductive metal or graphite is evenly dispersed in synthetic fiber; metal fiber obtained by fiberizing metal, such as stainless steel; conductive fiber in which a surface of organic fiber is coated with metal; and conductive fiber in which a surface of organic fiber is coated with resin that contains a conductive substance. Among these, carbon fiber is preferable. Carbon fiber is highly conductive and lightweight. Carbon black, such as acetylene black, may be used for the conductive member.

Relative to a mass of an entire solid content of the negative electrode active material layer 23, a mass ratio of the conductive member is preferably 0.5% by mass or more and 20% by mass or less, and more preferably 1% by mass or more and 10% by mass or less. If the mass ratio of the conductive member is within the aforementioned range, then an electronic conduction path can be suitably formed in the negative electrode active material layer 23, and reduction in energy density of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 can be inhibited.

Examples of the binder contained in the negative electrode active material layer 23 may include solvent-based binder, such as polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF), and aqueous binder, such as styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR).

The negative electrode active material layer 23 may comprise components other than the aforementioned components. However, a content of any component that is less likely to contribute to progress of charge and discharge reaction is preferably small. For example, a content of the binder is preferably small. Relative to the mass of the entire solid content contained in the negative electrode active material layer 23, the content of the binder is preferably 1% by mass or less, more preferably 0.5% by mass or less, further preferably 0.2% by mass or less, particularly preferably 0.1% by mass or less, and most preferably 0% by mass.

There is no particular limitation to a thickness of the negative electrode active material layer 23. The thickness of the negative electrode active material layer 23 may be appropriately specified based on, for example, publicly-known knowledge. For example, in consideration of intended use and ion conductivity of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1, the thickness of the negative electrode active material layer 23 may be specified as 1 μm or more and 500 μm or less, and preferably as 2 μm or more and 300 μm or less. Examples of the intended use of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 may include an intended use focusing on output and an intended use focusing on energy.

<Configuration of Current Collector>

Hereinafter, the positive electrode current collector 17 and the negative electrode current collector 21 are collectively referred to as a “current collector”. The current collector is formed of a conductive material. The current collector has a size determined based on the intended use of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1. For example, the current collector to be used for the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 having a large size and required to have high energy density has a large area.

There is no particular limitation to a thickness of the current collector. The thickness of the current collector is usually approximately 1 μm or more and 100 μm or less. There is no particular limitation to a shape of the current collector. Examples of the current collector may include a current collector foil and a mesh-shaped current collector. Examples of the mesh-shaped current collector may include an expanded grid. In a case where the negative electrode active material layer 23 made of thin film alloy is formed directly on the negative electrode current collector 21 by, for example, the sputtering method, the negative electrode current collector 21 is preferably a current collector foil.

There is no particular limitation to a material for forming the current collector. Examples of the material for forming the current collector may include metal, conductive polymeric material, and resin made of a non-conductive polymeric material and an added conductive filler.

Examples of the metal for forming the current collector may include aluminum, nickel, iron, stainless steel, titanium, and copper. Examples of the material for forming the current collector may include a clad material of nickel and aluminum, a clad material of copper and aluminum, and a plated material of a combination of any of the aforementioned metals. Examples of the material for forming the current collector may include a foil in which a metal surface is coated with aluminum. Aluminum, stainless steel, copper, and nickel are preferable for the material for forming the current collector. If aluminum, stainless steel, copper, or nickel is used as the material for forming the current collector, then electronic conductivity of the current collector is improved, a battery operating potential is reduced, and an improved adhesion between the negative electrode active material layer 23 and the negative electrode current collector 21 can be achieved when the negative electrode active material layer 23 is formed by sputtering.

Examples of the conductive polymeric material may include polyaniline, polypyrrole, polythiophene, polyacetylene, polyparaphenylene, polyphenylene vinylene, polyacrylonitrile, and polyoxadiazole. These conductive polymeric materials have sufficient conductivity without adding, for example, a conductive filler. Thus, in a case where a conductive polymeric material is used as the material for forming the current collector, a simplified manufacturing process of the current collector can be achieved, and weight reduction of the current collector can be achieved.

Examples of the non-conductive polymeric material may include polyethylene (PE), low-density polyethylene (LDPE), polypropylene (PP), polyethylene terephthalate (PET), polyether nitrile (PEN), polyimide (PI), polyamidimide (PAI), polyamide (PA), polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE), styrene-butadiene rubber (SBR), polyacrylonitrile (PAN), polymethyl acrylate (PMA), polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA), polyvinyl chloride (PVC), polyvinylidene fluoride (PVdF), and polystyrene (PS). Examples of polyethylene may include high-density polyethylene (HDPE) and low-density polyethylene (LDPE). These non-conductive polymeric materials have excellent potential resistance and solvent resistance.

A conductive filler may be added to the aforementioned conductive polymeric material or non-conductive polymeric material when needed. In particular, in a case where resin as a base material for the current collector is made of non-conductive polymer only, it is preferable to add a conductive filler to provide conductivity to the current collector.

There is no particular limitation to the conductive filler as long as a substance having conductivity is employed. The conductive filler may be, for example, a material that is excellent in conductivity, resistance to potential, or lithium ion insulation performance. Examples of the conductive filler may include metal and conductive carbon. There is no particular limitation to the type of metal. The metal may be, for example, at least one type of metal selected from a group consisting of Ni, Ti, Al, Cu, Pt, Fe, Cr, Sn, Zn, In, Sb, and K, or an alloy containing these metals. Examples of the conductive filler may include metal oxides of any of the aforementioned metals.

There is no particular limitation to the conductive carbon. The conductive carbon may be, for example, at least one type selected from a group consisting of acetylene black, Vulcan, Black Pearl, carbon nanofiber, Ketjen black, carbon nanotube, carbon nanohorn, carbon nanoballoon, and fullerene.

There is no particular limitation to an adding amount of the conductive filler, as long as the amount is sufficient to provide adequate conductivity to the current collector. The adding amount of the conductive filler is typically 5% by mass or more and 35% by mass or less, relative to a total mass of the current collector.

<Configuration of Electrolyte Layer 15>

Examples of the electrolyte to form the electrolyte layer 15 may include liquid electrolyte and polymer electrolyte. In a liquid electrolyte, a lithium salt is dissolved in an organic solvent. The lithium salt corresponds to an electrolyte salt. Examples of the organic solvent may include carbonates, such as ethylene carbonate (EC), propylene carbonate (PC), butylene carbonate (BC), vinylene carbonate (VC), dimethyl carbonate (DMC), diethyl carbonate (DEC), ethyl methyl carbonate (EMC), methyl propyl carbonate (MPC). The aforementioned organic solvents each may be used alone, or may be used in combination of two or more.

Examples of the lithium salt may include Li(CF₃SO₂)₂N, Li(C₂F₅SO₂)₂N, LiPF₆, LiBF₄, LiAsF₆, LiTaF₆, LiClO₄, and LiCF₃SO₃. The lithium salt may be, for example, a compound that may be added to an active material layer of an electrode.

The polymer electrolyte is classified into a gel electrolyte including an electrolyte solution and a true polymer electrolyte not including an electrolyte solution. The gel electrolyte has a configuration in which the liquid electrolyte is poured into a matrix polymer that comprises an ion conductive polymer. In a case of using a gel electrolyte as the electrolyte, fluidity of the electrolyte is reduced. This facilitates reduction in ion conduction between layers provided in the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1.

Examples of the matrix polymer may include polyalkylene oxide-based polymer. Examples of the polyalkylene oxide-based polymer may include polyethylene oxide (PEO), polypropylene oxide (PPO), and copolymers thereof. Polyalkylene oxide-based polymers sufficiently dissolve electrolyte salts, such as lithium salt.

There is no particular limitation to a mass ratio of the liquid electrolyte relative to a total mass of the gel electrolyte. The mass ratio of the liquid electrolyte relative to the total mass of the gel electrolyte is preferably in a range of several percent by mass or more and 98% by mass or less, and more preferably in a range of 70% by mass or more and 98% by mass or less. In a case where the mass ratio of the liquid electrolyte relative to the total mass of the gel electrolyte is within the aforementioned range, the electrolyte layer 15 has an increased ion conductivity.

In a case where the electrolyte layer 15 is formed of a liquid electrolyte or a gel electrolyte, the electrolyte layer 15 may comprise a separator. Examples of the separator may include non-woven cloth, fine porous film, and porous flat sheet. The porous flat sheet is formed of, for example, polyolefin, such as polyethylene and polypropylene.

The matrix polymer of the gel electrolyte may exhibit a high mechanical strength by forming a crosslinked structure. In a method for forming a crosslinked structure in the matrix polymer, for example, a polymerizable polymer for forming a polymer electrolyte and a suitable polymerization starter are added to the matrix polymer. Then, a polymerization process, such as thermal polymerization, ultraviolet polymerization, radiation polymerization, and electron beam polymerization, is performed. Examples of the polymerizable polymer for forming a polymer electrolytic may include PEO and PPO.

<Current Collector Plate>

The positive electrode current collector plate 7 and the negative electrode current collector plate 9 are collectively referred to as a “current collector plate”. The current collector plate has a function to take out electric current out of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1.

There is no limitation to a material for forming the current collector plate. Examples of the material for forming the current collector plate may include publicly-known high conductive materials that have been conventionally used for a current collector plate for the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1. The material for forming the current collector plate is preferably, for example, aluminum, copper, titanium, nickel, stainless steel (SUS), or an alloy thereof, and more preferably aluminum or copper. Aluminum and copper are lightweight, highly corrosion resistant, and highly conductive. A material for forming the positive electrode current collector plate 7 and a material for forming the negative electrode current collector plate 9 may be the same or different.

The lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 may comprise a positive electrode terminal lead and a negative electrode terminal lead. Example of materials for the positive electrode terminal lead and the negative electrode terminal lead may include materials for a terminal lead used in publicly-known lithium-ion rechargeable batteries.

Each exposed portion, out of the exterior material 5, of the current collector plate, the positive electrode terminal lead, and the negative electrode terminal lead is preferably covered with, for example, a heat shrink tube having heat-resistant and insulating properties. In this case, if the current collector plate, the positive electrode terminal lead, or the negative electrode terminal lead contacts any peripheral device, wiring, or other components, it is possible to reduce electric leakage and influence on the peripheral device. Examples of the peripheral device may include automobile parts and electronic devices.

<Exterior Material 5>

Examples of the exterior material 5 may include a metal can case and a bag-shaped case. The bag-shaped case may be, for example, a bag-shaped case made of a laminate film. The bag-shaped case made of a laminate film allows the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 to achieve increased output, and has an excellent cooling performance. The bag-shaped case made of a laminate film can be suitably used for a battery for large devices for an EV and an HEV.

The laminate film may be, for example, a laminate film that includes an aluminum layer. The laminate film may be, for example, a three-layer laminate film formed of a PP layer, an aluminum layer, and a nylon layer that are stacked in this order.

<Outer Appearance of Lithium-Ion Rechargeable Battery 1>

FIG. 4 is a perspective view showing an outer appearance of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1. The lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 is a stacked-type flat lithium-ion rechargeable battery. The lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 has a rectangular flat shape.

The positive electrode current collector plate 7 and the negative electrode current collector plate 9 to take out electric power therethrough are led out from both sides of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1. The power generation element 3 is enveloped by the exterior material 5. Peripheral portions of the exterior material 5 are heat welded. Thus, the power generation element 3 is sealed with the exterior material 5.

The lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 is not limited to a stacked-type flat battery (for example, a laminate cell). Examples of the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 may include a wound-type battery. Examples of the wound-type battery may include a cylindrical battery (for example, a coin cell), a prismatic battery (for example, a prismatic cell), a rectangular flat battery formed by deformation of a cylindrical battery, and a cylinder-shaped cell.

The aforementioned cylindrical battery and prismatic battery each may comprise a laminate film or a metal can as the exterior material. The power generation element is preferably covered with an exterior material made of an aluminum laminate film. In this case, the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 can be lightweight.

There is no particular limitation to the manner of leading out the positive electrode current collector plate 7 and the negative electrode current collector plate 9 from the exterior material 5. For example, the positive electrode current collector plate 7 and the negative electrode current collector plate 9 may be led out from a same side of the exterior material 5. Alternatively, the positive electrode current collector plate 7 and the negative electrode current collector plate 9 each may be divided into portions, and parts of the divided portions of the current collector plate may be led out from corresponding sides of the exterior material 5. When the lithium-ion rechargeable battery 1 is a wound-type battery, a terminal may be formed by using the exterior material made of a metal can.

4. Examples (4-1) Example 1

(i) Formation of Negative Electrode Sample

Hard carbon as a negative electrode active material and an electrolyte solution were mixed in a glove box having a dew point of −80° C., and then lithium metal powder was added at room temperature, to thereby prepare a negative electrode active material slurry. The negative electrode active material slurry has a composition in which the negative electrode active material and the metal lithium powder are dispersed in the electrolyte solution.

The electrolyte solution comprises an organic solvent and lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF₆). A concentration of lithium hexafluorophosphate in the electrolyte solution is 1 mol/L. Lithium fluorophosphate is dissolved in the organic solvent. The organic solvent was prepared by mixing ethylene carbonate (EC) and propylene carbonate (PC) at a volume ratio of EC:PC=1:1. An amount of the electrolyte solution was adjusted such that a solid content ratio (ER) in the negative electrode active material slurry was 5%. An amount of the lithium metal powder was adjusted such that the first potential E₁ was 0.3 V.

Subsequently, the negative electrode active material slurry was kneaded at a speed of 30 to 60 rpm for 20 hours using a kneader (HIVIS MIX by PRIMIX Corporation). This process corresponds to a predoping process. In the predoping process, lithium ions are doped into the negative electrode active material. As a result of the predoping process, the lithium metal powder in the negative electrode active material slurry disappeared. After the predoping process, the first potential E₁ was 0.3 V. The first potential E₁ was reduced as compared with 3.0 V, which was the potential of the negative electrode active material at start of the predoping process.

Subsequently, ion exchange water was dropped into the negative electrode active material slurry, and stirring was performed for approximately one hour. This process corresponds to the post-doping modification process. A dropping amount of the ion exchange water is 0.0030 mol per gram of the negative electrode active material. The dropping amount of the ion exchange water is 14.9 μmol per mAh of lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material. The ion exchange water corresponds to a reactive compound. The ion exchange water reacts with lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material. The second potential E₂ was 1.0 V.

Subsequently, a guide of ϕ15 mm obtained by punching was placed on a base material formed of a nickel mesh having a mesh opening of 0.5 μm. The negative electrode active material slurry after the post-doping modification process was poured in the guide. Then, suction filtration was performed from below the base material using a vacuum suction device, to thereby remove solvent components contained in the negative electrode active material slurry. As a result, a negative electrode cake was formed in the guide.

Subsequently, the negative electrode cake was taken out of the guide. The taken-out negative electrode cake was pressed with a hydraulic press machine to achieve an increased density. As a result, a negative electrode sample S1 was obtained. The negative electrode sample S1 had a porosity of 40%.

(ii) Formation of Positive Electrode Sample

Coated lithium cobalt aluminum composite oxide as a positive electrode active material and an electrolyte solution were mixed in a glove box having a dew point of −80° C., and stirred for 1 minute using a shaker, to thereby prepare a positive electrode active material slurry. The coated lithium cobalt aluminum composite oxide has a composition of LiNi_(0.8)Co_(0.15)Al_(0.05)O₂. The electrolyte solution used here is the same as the electrolyte solution used when manufacturing the negative electrode sample S1. An amount of the electrolyte solution was adjusted such that a solid content ratio (ER) in the positive electrode active material slurry was 5%.

Subsequently, a guide of ϕ15 mm obtained by punching was placed on a base material formed of a nickel mesh having a mesh opening of 0.5 μm. The positive electrode active material slurry prepared as described above was poured in the guide. Then, suction filtration was performed from below the base material using a vacuum suction device, to thereby remove solvent components contained in the positive electrode active material slurry. As a result, a positive electrode cake was formed in the guide. A unit weight of the positive electrode cake was adjusted such that a ratio of a negative electrode capacity A to a positive electrode capacity C (hereinafter referred to as a “capacity ratio A/C”) had a value of 1.2.

Subsequently, the positive electrode cake was taken out of the guide. The taken-out positive electrode cake was pressed with a hydraulic press machine to achieve an increased density. As a result, a positive electrode sample was obtained. The positive electrode sample had a porosity of 45%.

(iii) Formation of Laminate Cell C1

The negative electrode sample S1 and the positive electrode sample formed as described above were stacked via a separator, to form a stack. The separator is a fine porous film made of polypropylene (PP) and having a thickness of 25 sm. The stack was held by a copper foil and an aluminum foil provided with leads from both sides of the stack, to thereby form a cell main body. The cell main body was soaked in 100 mL of an electrolyte solution, and was finally sealed with an aluminum laminate material under reduced pressure, to thereby form a laminate cell C1. The electrolyte solution in which the cell main body is soaked is the same as the electrolyte solution contained in the negative electrode active material slurry.

(4-2) Example 2

A negative electrode sample S2 and a laminate cell C2 were formed by basically the same method as in Example 1. However, there is a difference from Example 1 in amount of the ion exchange water to be dropped in the post-doping modification process. In the present example, the dropping amount of the ion exchange water is 0.0041 mol per gram of the negative electrode active material. The dropping amount of the ion exchange water is 20.5 μmol per mAh of lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material. The second potential E₂ was 1.5 V.

(4-3) Example 3

A negative electrode sample S3 and a laminate cell C3 were formed by basically the same method as in Example 1. However, in the present example, the amount of the lithium metal powder contained in the negative electrode active material slurry was adjusted such that the first potential E₁ was 0.2 V. Also, in the present example, the amount of the ion exchange water to be dropped in the post-doping modification process was specified as 0.0056 mol per gram of the negative electrode active material. The dropping amount of the ion exchange water is 18.7 μmol per mAh of lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material. The second potential E₂ was 1.1 V.

(4-4) Example 4

A negative electrode sample S4 and a laminate cell C4 were formed by basically the same method as in Example 1. However, in the present example, the amount of the lithium metal powder contained in the negative electrode active material slurry was adjusted such that the first potential E₁ was 0.2 V. Also, in the present example, the amount of the ion exchange water to be dropped in the post-doping modification process was specified as 0.0071 mol per gram of the negative electrode active material. The dropping amount of the ion exchange water is 23.6 μmol per mAh of the lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material. The second potential E₂ was 1.5 V.

(4-5) Example 5

A negative electrode sample S5 and a laminate cell C5 were formed by basically the same method as in Example 1. However, in the present example, the amount of the lithium metal powder contained in the negative electrode active material slurry was adjusted such that the first potential E₁ was 0.1 V. Also, in the present example, the amount of the ion exchange water to be dropped in the post-doping modification process was specified as 0.0112 mol per gram of the negative electrode active material. The dropping amount of the ion exchange water is 22.4 mol per mAh of the lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material. The second potential E₂ was 0.9 V.

(4-6) Example 6

A negative electrode sample S6 and a laminate cell C6 were formed by basically the same method as in Example 1. However, in the present example, the amount of the lithium metal powder contained in the negative electrode active material slurry was adjusted such that the first potential E₁ was 0.1 V. Also, in the present example, the amount of the ion exchange water to be dropped in the post-doping modification process was specified as 0.0134 mol per gram of the negative electrode active material. The dropping amount of the ion exchange water is 26.8 μmol per mAh of the lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material. The second potential E₂ was 1.5 V.

(4-7) Comparative Example 1

(i) Formation of Negative Electrode Sample

Hard carbon as a negative electrode active material and an electrolyte solution were mixed in a glove box having a dew point of −80° C., and then stirred for 1 minute with a shaker, to prepare a negative electrode active material slurry. The electrolyte solution contains an organic solvent and lithium hexafluorophosphate (LiPF₆). A concentration of lithium hexafluorophosphate in the electrolyte solution is 1 mol/L. Lithium fluorophosphate is dissolved in the organic solvent. The organic solvent was prepared by mixing ethylene carbonate (EC) and propylene carbonate (PC) at a volume ratio of “EC:PC=1:1”. An amount of the electrolyte solution was adjusted such that a solid content ratio (ER) in the negative electrode active material slurry was 5%.

Subsequently, a guide of ϕ15 mm obtained by punching was placed on a base material formed of a nickel mesh having a mesh opening of 0.5 μm. The negative electrode active material slurry prepared as described above was poured in the guide. Then, suction filtration was performed from below the base material using a vacuum suction device, to thereby remove solvent components contained in the negative electrode active material slurry. As a result, a negative electrode cake was formed in the guide.

Subsequently, the negative electrode cake was taken out of the guide. The taken-out negative electrode cake was pressed with a hydraulic press machine to achieve an increased density. As a result, a negative electrode sample RS1 was obtained. The negative electrode sample RS1 had a porosity of 40%.

(ii) Formation of Positive Electrode Sample

Coated lithium cobalt aluminum composite oxide as a positive electrode active material and an electrolyte solution were mixed in a glove box having a dew point of −80° C., and stirred for 1 minute using a shaker, to thereby prepare a positive electrode active material slurry. The coated lithium cobalt aluminum composite oxide has a composition of LiNi_(0.8)Co_(0.15)Al_(0.05)O₂. The electrolyte solution used here is the same as the electrolyte solution used when forming the negative electrode sample RS1. An amount of the electrolyte solution was adjusted such that a solid content ratio (ER) in the positive electrode active material slurry was 5%.

Subsequently, a guide of ϕ15 mm obtained by punching was placed on a base material formed of a nickel mesh having a mesh opening of 0.5 μm. The positive electrode active material slurry prepared as described above was poured in the guide. Then, suction filtration was performed from below the base material using a vacuum suction device, to thereby remove solvent components contained in the positive electrode active material slurry. As a result, a positive electrode cake was formed in the guide. A unit weight of the positive electrode cake was adjusted such that the capacity ratio A/C had a value of 1.2.

Subsequently, the positive electrode cake was taken out of the guide. The taken-out positive electrode cake was pressed with a hydraulic press machine to achieve an increased density. As a result, a positive electrode sample was obtained. The positive electrode sample had a porosity of 45%.

(iii) Formation of Laminate Cell RC1

The negative electrode sample RS1 and the positive electrode sample formed as described above were stacked via a separator, to form a stack. The separator is a fine porous film made of polypropylene (PP) and having a thickness of 25 μm. The stack was held by a copper foil and an aluminum foil provided with leads from both sides of the stack, to thereby form a cell main body. The cell main body was soaked in 100 mL of an electrolyte solution, and was finally sealed with an aluminum laminate material under reduced pressure, to thereby forma laminate cell RC1. The electrolyte solution in which the cell main body is soaked is the same as the electrolyte solution contained in the negative electrode active material slurry.

(4-8) Comparative Example 2

A negative electrode sample RS2 and a laminate cell RC2 were formed by basically the same method as in Example 1. However, in the present comparative example, the negative electrode sample RS2 was formed using the negative electrode active material slurry after the predoping process without performing the post-doping modification process. Also, in the present comparative example, the first potential E₁ was 0.75 V.

Table 1 shows manufacturing conditions of respective laminate cells in Examples 1 to and Comparative Examples 1 to 2.

TABLE 1 Post-Doping Predoping Modification Process Gas Process Dropping Charge- Generation Gas Capacity First Amount of Second Discharge Amount after Generation Retention Potential E₁ Water Potential E₂ OCV Efficiency Initial Charge Amount after Rate [V] [mol/g] [V] Variation [%] and Discharge Durability Test [%] Example 1 0.3 0.003 1.0 B 90 A A 93 Example 2 0.3 0.0041 1.5 A 89 A A 95 Example 3 0.2 0.0056 1.1 B 90 A A 93 Example 4 0.2 0.0071 1.5 A 89 A A 95 Example 5 0.1 0.0112 0.9 C 90 A A 89 Example 6 0.1 0.0134 1.5 A 90 A A 93 Comparative Example 1 3.0 0 3.0 A 75 C B 79 Comparative Example 2 0.75 0 0.75 D 89 B B 85

(4-10) Evaluation of Laminate Cells

Evaluations were performed on the laminate cells formed in Examples 1 to 6, and Comparative Examples 1 to 2.

(i) Preparation for Evaluations

Each laminate cell was placed in a thermostatic chamber, and temperature control was performed. A set temperature in the thermostatic chamber was 25° C. In that state, one cycle of charge and discharge of the laminate cell was performed using a charge and discharge system (produced by HOKUTO DENKO CORPORATION). During this charge and discharge, charge was performed with a charge current of 0.05 C by CCCV charging up to a termination voltage of 4.2 V, and then discharge was performed with a discharge current of 0.05 C down to a termination voltage of 2.5 V. Thereafter, evaluations of (ii), and (iv) to (vi) were conducted.

(ii) Evaluation of Variation in Charge-Discharge Efficiency

Five cells were prepared for each of Examples and each of Comparative Examples. A charge-discharge efficiency of each of the five cells was measured. A value obtained by subtracting a minimum value from a maximum value of the charge-discharge efficiency of the five cells is defined as a charge-discharge efficiency difference ΔY. A variation in the charge-discharge efficiency was evaluated based on the following criteria:

A: ΔY has a value less than 2%.

B: ΔY has a value of 2% or more and less than 5%.

C: ΔY has a value of 5% or more.

The evaluation results are shown in a column of “OCV variation” in Table 1 above.

(iii) Measurement of Charge-Discharge Efficiency

In the process of charge and discharge in (i) above, a battery capacity after charge and a battery capacity after discharge were measured. Then, a ratio (hereinafter referred to as a “charge-discharge efficiency”) of the battery capacity after discharge to the battery capacity after charge was calculated. A unit of the charge-discharge efficiency is percent. The charge-discharge efficiency is also referred to as “coulombic efficiency”. The charge-discharge efficiency (%) is represented by following Formula (1): Y=(Z ₁ /Z ₂)×100  Formula (1):

In Formula (1), Y is the charge-discharge efficiency (%). Z₁ is the battery capacity (mAh/g) after discharge. Z₂ is the battery capacity (mAh/g) after charge.

Measurement results are shown in Table 1 above. As the charge-discharge efficiency is greater, charged energy can be used more efficiently for discharge, which is preferable. The laminate cell of each of Examples had an equal or greater charge-discharge efficiency than the charge-discharge efficiency of the laminate cell of each of Comparative Examples.

(iv) Evaluation of Gas Generation Amount after Initial Charge and Discharge

A volume V₀ of each laminate cell immediately after formation was measured. Subsequently, an initial charge and discharge of the laminate cell was performed, and then a volume V₁ of the laminate cell was measured. A gas generation amount after the initial charge and discharge was evaluated based on the following criteria:

A: (V₁−V₀)/V₀ has a value less than 0.1%.

B: (V₁−V₀)/V₀ has a value of 0.1% or more and less than 0.3%.

C: (V₁−V₀)/V₀ has a value of 0.3% or more.

The evaluation results are shown in Table 1 above. The laminate cell of each of Examples had a gas generation amount less than the gas generation amount of the laminate cell of each of Comparative Examples.

(v) Evaluation of Gas Generation Amount after Durability Test

A volume V₀ of each laminate cell immediately after formation was measured. Subsequently, charge and discharge of the laminate cell was repeated by 100 cycles, and then a volume V₁₀₀ of the laminate cell was measured. A gas generation amount after such durability test was evaluated based on the following criteria:

A: (V₁₀₀−V₀)/V₀ has a value less than 0.1%.

B: (V₁₀₀−V₀)/V₀ has a value of 0.1% or more and less than 0.3%.

C: (V₁₀₀−V₀)/V₀ has a value of 0.3% or more.

The evaluation results are shown in Table 1 above. The laminate cell of each of Examples had a gas generation amount less than the gas generation amount of the laminate cell of each of Comparative Examples.

(vi) Evaluation of Cycle Durability

Charge and discharge of each laminate cell was repeated by 100 cycles. During the charge and discharge of the first cycle, charge was performed with a charge current of 0.05 C by CCCV charging up to a termination voltage of 4.2 V, and then discharge was performed with a discharge current of 0.05 C down to a termination voltage of 2.5 V. During the charge and discharge from the second to ninety-ninth cycles, charge was performed with a charge current of 0.3 C by CCCV charging up to a termination voltage of 4.2 V, and then discharge was performed with a discharge current of 0.3 C down to a termination voltage of 2.5 V. During charge and discharge of the 100th cycle, charge and discharge was performed in the same manner as in the first cycle.

A rate of the capacity in the 100th cycle relative to the initial capacity (hereinafter referred to as a “capacity retention rate”) was calculated. Calculation results of the capacity retention rate are shown in Table 1 above. The capacity retention rate of the laminate cell of each of Examples was higher than the capacity retention rate of the laminate cell of each of Comparative Examples.

5. Other Embodiments

Although embodiments of the present disclosure have been described above, the present disclosure is not limited to the above-described embodiments, but may be implemented in various modified forms.

(1) A function served by a single element in the embodiments above may be served by a plurality of elements, or a function served by a plurality of elements may be served by a single element. Also, a part of a configuration in any of the embodiments above may be omitted. Further, at least a part of a configuration in any of the embodiments above may be added to, or replace, a configuration in another embodiment. It is to be noted that any form within the technical scope defined by the language of the appended claims may be an embodiment of the present disclosure.

(2) In addition to the predoping method for a negative electrode active material, the manufacturing method for a negative electrode, and the manufacturing method for a power storage device as described above, the present disclosure may also be achieved in various forms, including a manufacturing method for a negative electrode active material, a negative electrode active material, a negative electrode, a power storage device, and so on. 

The invention claimed is:
 1. A method for predoping a negative electrode active material with lithium ions, the method comprising: predoping the negative electrode active material with lithium ions, to thereby reduce a potential (vs. Li+/Li) of the negative electrode active material relative to lithium metal; and carrying out a reaction between a reactive compound that is reactive with lithium ions and the lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material, to thereby increase the potential of the negative electrode active material relative to lithium metal, wherein the potential of the negative electrode active material relative to lithium metal is 0.8 V or more at completion of the reaction, and an amount of the reactive compound used in the reaction is from 1 μmol to 35 μmol per mAh of the lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material.
 2. The method according to claim 1, wherein the amount of the reactive compound used in the reaction is from 3 μmol to 33 μmol per mAh of the lithium ions doped into the negative electrode active material.
 3. The method according to claim 1, wherein the reactive compound is one or more selected from the group consisting of water, oxygen, nitrogen, and carbon dioxide.
 4. A method for manufacturing a negative electrode, the method comprising: manufacturing a negative electrode active material doped with lithium ions by the method according to claim 1; and manufacturing a negative electrode with the negative electrode active material doped with lithium ions.
 5. A method for manufacturing a power storage device that comprises a positive electrode and a negative electrode, the method comprising: manufacturing the negative electrode by the method according to claim
 4. 6. The method according to claim 5, wherein the power storage device is a lithium-ion rechargeable battery or a lithium ion capacitor. 